Bombe Mane returns with tales of tradition

Bombe Mane, the annual Dasara Doll Show, has returned to Mysuru, showcasing a vibrant collection of dolls that depict the city's heritage and mythological tales. Hemalatha Kumaraswamy's house, which has been hosting the tradition for three decades, is once again adorned with a magnificent display of dolls on nine tiered platforms.

The display is dedicated to characters and episodes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, featuring iconic figures like Rama, Krishna, Shakunthala, and Dushyantha. Dolls representing traditional Mysuru structures and events from the Wadiyar era also form part of the display. However, there has been a noticeable decline in the Bombe Mane tradition as younger generations show less interest in carrying forward the custom.

Meanwhile, Sundareshan in Saraswathipuram has transformed waste materials into artistic dolls, with a theme of patriotism, featuring dolls commemorating the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram and Kittur Chennamma. Similarly, Dr. Pooja has preserved dolls that are over a century old, continuing the tradition in their household. Various other households in Mysuru have also set up Bombe Mane, displaying dolls that resonate with the city's cultural heritage.